1776-1861

  • Period: to

    American Revolution to Civil War

  • Common Sense

    Common Sense
    January 10, 1776. Written by Thomas Paine, this pamphlet stressed the importance of declaring Independence from Britain. Furthermore, it described the sins and evils commited by Britain.
  • The Signing of the Declaration of Independence

    The Signing of the Declaration of Independence
    Signed by the First Continental Congress, the Declaration of Independence addressed the grievances of the colonists towards the king. After repeated offenses and mistreatments by the king, the colonists finally declare their independence.
  • Ratification of the Bill of Rights

    Ratification of the Bill of Rights
    The states would only ratify the constitution if a Bill of Rights would be made. So, a Bill of Rights was written and ratified to ensure the rights of the people.
  • Invention of the Steamboat

    Invention of the Steamboat
    The steamboat was invented by Robert Fulton. The steamboat enabled quick transportation for both people and goods. However, the steamboat contributed largly to pollution.
  • Creation of the First US Highway

    Creation of the First US Highway
    The first highway created in the United States was called Cumberland Road. The development of highways served a major role in transportation.
  • Invention of Morse Code

    Invention of Morse Code
    Morse Code was invented by Samuel Morse. This innovation was served as a key source of communication during wars.
  • Richmond Slave Law

    Richmond Slave Law
    Richmond, Virginia, passes a comprehensive slave code that, among other stipulations, prohibits self-hiring by slaves, restricts blacks from entering certain parts of the city, specifies street etiquette, and forbids slaves from smoking, carrying canes, standing on the sidewalk, and using provocative language.
  • Arizona Slave Law

    Arizona Slave Law
    Arizona declares that all free blacks in the territory will be considered slaves on the first day of the new year.
  • Former Slaves allowed Citizenship

    Former Slaves allowed Citizenship
    After the ratification of the 14th amendment, African Americans and former slaves were given the right to become citizens. This was a step towards equality for all Americans; it also led to female equality.